How to Get a Diagnosis of ADHD For many adults, a diagnosis of ADHD can be a challenge. Some people feel relieved at finally being able to recognize their challenges, while others are sad for having missed opportunities to live their lives because of symptoms that went untreated for so long. A mental health specialist or health care professional can diagnose ADHD by analyzing the mood of a person, their present and past mental and medical conditions, as well as their childhood behavior and experiences at school. The assessment includes ADHD symptoms scales and checklists. Signs and symptoms People suffering from ADHD struggle to complete tasks that require mental energy over time or paying attention to the details. These issues are often caused by other underlying issues such as depression or substance abuse disorders. The first step in tackling the symptoms that cause trouble on both a personal and professional level is to obtain a proper ADHD diagnosis. ADHD symptoms usually begin in childhood and last into adulthood. For a person to receive an diagnosis of the disorder and be diagnosed with it, their symptoms must interfere with their lives in at least two areas (home school, home and work) and cause significant impairment. To meet adult adhd diagnoses must be present for at least six months. They are not better explained by other mental disorders such as mood disorders, anxiety disorders, dissociative disorders or personality disorders. The health care professional will also go over the patient's medical and mental history. They will also talk with the person and, if they are able, their family members, in order to gain a perspective on childhood behavior. The health care professional will also talk to the patient's teachers and go over their current work and home environments. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition published by the American Psychiatric Association, provides guidelines for identifying ADHD. In general, in order to be diagnosed with the type of inattention of ADHD, an individual must exhibit at least six inattention-related symptoms that are serious enough to interfere with their life. To be diagnosed with the hyperactive/impulsive type of ADHD, an individual must have six of the following symptoms: A health care professional will usually identify a person with ADHD through a thorough psychiatric evaluation. This will include a thorough interview with the individual and their parents, and any other caregivers or educators, as well completing scales or questionnaires. The health care provider will also review the person's medical, psychiatric and family histories and may refer the patient for a physical examination to rule out any other reasons for their symptoms. The doctor will also look at the person's sleeping habits, diet and work and the home environment to identify any stressors that may be contributing to their symptoms. Diagnosis If you suspect you might have ADHD is important to consult a medical specialist who is trained in the disorder. Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and their impact on your daily life. They will want to know if you are struggling to complete tasks, if you often lose things, or if you forget where you put your keys. They might ask whether or not these issues cause you stress at work, at home or in relationships. Your doctor will also look over your medical history and physical examination. This information will help them identify other conditions that may be similar to the symptoms of ADHD like sleep disorders, depression and anxiety or a thyroid issue. It's likely that your health care provider will question family members, friends and other caregivers regarding your behavior. They will also discuss your behavior in various situations like at school, work or with religious or scout leaders. You might be asked to take self-tests to identify your symptoms. They are available online, but they should not be used to replace a face-toface interview with your physician. For adults who are diagnosed with ADHD requires you to meet a lower threshold of symptoms than for kids - five out of nine signs over the course of six months. You must also be able to demonstrate a significant impact on your school, work as well as your home life. If your symptoms are severe, your doctor may recommend neuropsychological or psychological testing to determine if you have the inattentive or hyperactive-impulsive subtype of ADHD. These tests typically look at the ways your brain functions and help determine if you suffer from co-existing mental disorders, such as anxiety or depression. Receiving a diagnosis of ADHD as an adult can bring up complex emotions. The emotions of Matlen ranged from anger at missed opportunities to relief she could pinpoint a cause for her problems. Ask your doctor or local support group for a referral to a medical professional who can conduct ADHD evaluations in adults. You can also contact your insurance company to find out which doctors are included. Treatment For many people suffering from ADHD medication is the first treatment option. Drugs like amphetamine or methylphenidate increase or balance levels of brain chemicals, known as neurotransmitters, which regulate attention and behaviors. They can help those with ADHD focus and stay well-organized. They also help control their impulses and make more rational decisions, improve communication, and decrease impulsive behavior. There are also nonstimulant medicines like atomoxetine or antidepressants that are more slowly than stimulants, but can still be effective for some people with ADHD. The type of medication that works best for a person's needs may change over time, so it is important to discuss all options with the medical professional who conducts the assessment. A health specialist with expertise in ADHD will conduct an assessment that includes an interview with the individual, completion of questionnaires and scales for the individual and an examination of the family history of mood disorders, as well as medical conditions, like sleep disorders and other physical ailments. A referral for an examination by a doctor could be included to rule out a possible medical cause for the ADHD symptoms. It is likely that the test will take some time. This is especially true if you are an adult who has had to struggle to cope with symptoms over a long time. The evaluation should be as comprehensive as possible, which means that the person should bring copies of the performance evaluations from their job or school and other information like old report cards. The healthcare professional might ask permission to speak to relatives or close friends to get a full understanding of the individual's past experiences and behaviors. For adults, a diagnosis of ADHD can be a life-changing event. It is common for people to feel various emotions, ranging from relief at finally getting a reason for their issues to sadness over the loss of opportunities and relationships that were damaged by untreated ADHD. Matlen however, claims that after receiving a diagnosis she was able to make positive changes in her life, including her career and her relationships. Counseling Finding help from a counselor is a crucial step for many people with ADHD. Finding the right therapist is not always easy. There are many methods to find a therapist in the area. Start by asking your regular doctor for a referral. He or she may have a list with specialists who have experience treating ADHD. You can also try looking for them online. There are a variety of websites that provide directories of doctors and include information on their areas of focus and areas of expertise. Another option is to ask for a recommendation from your friends or family members. You can also call your local mental health center or an ADHD support group for suggestions. If you visit a therapist who is experienced in treating ADHD it is crucial to be as honest as possible. This includes discussing the ways in which ADHD symptoms impact your life and the effect they have on other people. It's also important to discuss your medical history. This allows the therapist to identify any illnesses such as anxiety or depression that may be similar to anxiety or depression. The therapist will also conduct interviews and utilize standard scales to assess the severity of the symptoms. The therapist could also ask other caregivers to provide their feedback, such as teachers, religious leaders or scout and scout leaders in order to get an accurate picture of behavior of an individual in various situations. Adults who suffer from ADHD often feel frustrated and ashamed of their condition and are unwilling to talk about their issues. This can affect the accuracy and quality of the diagnosis. A therapist who has worked with adults who have ADHD can assist them in overcoming these obstacles. It is also important to realize that a diagnosis of ADHD does not mean the counselor will immediately prescribe medication. While certain individuals who suffer from ADHD might require medication, behavioral therapy is another option that is extremely efficient. These treatments can be used with medication or as standalone treatments.
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